Andy Ibarra, back to the middle east (forum member AnglerNFuego)

[JCrzy4Bass]

Hey guys. I was thinking the past few days of exactly what to write here and I finally think I figured out everything I wanted to say about this.

Last year I met a great friend on here, Andy Ibarra (AnglerNFuego). Honestly he has become as close to me as some of my life long friends. We met up a few times last year to go fishing at Burke Lake and then eventually to the Potomac River and Occoquan River. Before we knew it, we were a bass fishing tag team. My dad and him ended up getting really close too. I guess you could say we were almost like the three musketeers when it came to bass fishing.

Well we knew Andy was in the service and a couple months ago he told us he was heading back over seas for another deployment (his second). Man that was tough. My uncle has served once over there but as a doctor in the Navy. But I never knew someone who is or would be involved in the thick of the situation over there. Andy will be on the front lines supporting our country and the people that live here.

I just wanted to let you guys know as of last Monday or Tuesday Andy was on a plane headed over there and as I write this he is getting himself situated for a long term stay. He has arrived safely and is ready to do his job so he can return home safe and be back with his family and friends.

He is a father and a husband and has many other friends and family members here at home. I just wanted to say on behalf of all of us that we wish him the best and a safe return home. We know he will do us proud and we can't wait to see his bass fishing smiling mug here at home again.

We will miss you buddy. Remember to send my dad and I the address and information for the care package. And remember whenever you get a chance to update us here and or any other medium you got man.  Thanks for everything you have done for me as a friend, ad I can't wait to get into more trouble and mischief with you when you get home.  It will be just like old times!

Lastly, I just wanted to say that this place is definately the most amazing place ever. I met a seriously great friend on here that I can go out with and fish, shoot the stuff and just have a good time. It goes to show that a place like this really has special qualities that can build unbelievable friendships. When Andy gets home we are going to have a welcoming party in his honor, so any Northern Va members or other people from the area that have gotten close to Andy and wish to be a part of it, let me know.

Thanks for reading guys. If any of you wish to leave comments here, kind words, etc feel free. For more personal messages go ahead and shoot him a pm or send me a pm with info and I can email Andy with it.

God bless Andy. Your one of the best fishing partners a guy can hope for. Good luck.

[ba7ss3in]

Not that it matters but what branch of the service is he in. Just curious. Also, thanks and prayers sent for his safe return.

[JCrzy4Bass]

I am not positive but I think it's the navy. I'm sure he will get on here eventually and let us know as he was on last night.  I'm pretty sure though.  We never really talked much about details as far as work.  I'm sure he's told me once or twice, just can't put my tongue on it.

[rondef]

I would like to second what JCrzy4Bass said. Andy is a really close friend and my families thoughts and prayers are with him and his family for a safe return. Andy please let us know where Jay and I can send care packages for you. When you get back we are going to have a big welcome back party/cookout at my house any Bass Resource forum members that would like to attend are more than welcome to come. I know this will not be for quite some time as his deployment is for 14 months but we are honored to be able to do this for him and his family when he returns.

[MALTESE FALCON]

My thoughts and prayers go out to Andy and his family, for his safe return.

Falcon

[Dan:]

Good luck, Andy! I wish you and your family all the best.

[fishbear]

Good luck and God Bless you Andy.

I know how your friends and family feels.  My nephew has been over to Iraq once for a year.  We just found out, he will be deployed there again, next summer.  This time he will also be a father.

I send my prayers every night for all the fighting men and women that stand guard for us.  

I also send my thanks for doing what you do.

John

[Grey Wolf]

May God watch over Andy and all of our other men and women stationed over seas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[IneedAnewScreenName9886691]

Thanks Andy!  Will be lookin for ya!